American / Land Cress Seeds

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American / Land Cress has a peppery flavour similar to water-cress. Best grown in shaded, but warm areas it is mainly used in salads and soups.

The soil used should be good, with plenty of added compost and the plants should be well watered in dry weather. You can start picking when the plants have developed several leaves. Pull a few leaves from each plant as and when needed, then leave to regrow. The later sowings should be protected by cloches during colder weather.

NOTE: Seed is very slow to germinate.

Average Packet Contents: 750 seeds

American Land Cress (Barbarea verna) is a robust, fast-growing leafy green, offering a peppery flavour reminiscent of watercress but without the need for abundant water. It's an excellent addition to salads and can be cultivated year-round with proper care.

Sowing and Growing:

• Timing: For continuous harvests, sow seeds from March to September. In milder climates, sowing in late summer allows for winter harvesting, as the plant is hardy and can withstand mild frosts.

• Location: Choose a partially shaded spot with moist, well-draining soil. Land cress thrives in cool conditions and may bolt quickly in hot weather.

• Sowing Method: Sow seeds thinly, 1 cm deep, in rows 15 cm apart. Keep the soil consistently moist to promote germination, which typically occurs within 7-14 days at temperatures between 15-20°C.

Maintenance:

• Thinning: Once seedlings are established, thin them to 10 cm apart to ensure adequate space for growth.

• Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods, to encourage tender leaf production.

• Feeding: While land cress isn't particularly demanding, incorporating compost into the soil before planting can boost growth.

Harvesting:

• Begin harvesting leaves when they reach about 10 cm in length, approximately 7-8 weeks after sowing. Regular picking encourages new growth and extends the harvesting period. Land cress is suitable for 'cut and come again' harvesting; plants will continue to produce fresh leaves after cutting.

Pests and Diseases:

• Land cress is relatively pest-free and doesn't suffer from significant diseases. However, keep an eye out for common garden pests and practice crop rotation to maintain soil health.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a continuous supply of flavourful American Land Cress throughout much of the year.